In-situ fabrication of a soluble PVP/ snail mucus-based fibrous facial mask via handheld electrospinning

Recent trends towards preservative-free and sustainable formulation have stimulated demand for natural, biocompatible, and eco-friendly skincare products. Traditional wet facial masks moisturize and nourish the skin, but at the same time, they need a preservative system, have a short shelf life, and plastic-based packaging. In comparison, dry-type masks provide an environmentally compatible option; however, traditional drying methodologies can lead to instability of bioactives and are scale-limited. Therefore, this study introduces a novel, soluble fibrous facial mask fabricated via handheld electrospinning, enabling mild, energy-efficient, and personalized production directly adaptable to the facial to overcome the limitations of conventional masks. The facial mask was fabricated by using polyvinylpyrrolidone, a water-soluble and biocompatible polymer, with snail mucus, a natural ingredient containing glycoproteins, mucopolysaccharides, and bioactive peptides for hydration and skin regenerative action. The findings showed that optimization of electrospinning parameters yielded homogeneously distributed fibers. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were done for the characterization of fabricated facial masks, referred to as SpunMasks. Additionally, dissolving analysis, moisture permeability, pH compatibility, cell viability of dermal fibroblast cells, in vitro scratch, chorioallantoic membrane, sirius red, and hemolysis assays were carried out to evaluate the skin compatibility and biosafety of the SpunMasks. The result revealed that SpunMasks exhibit favorable moisture permeability, appropriate pH for skin and anti-aging potential, while biosafety analyses confirmed the non-irritant and hemocompatible characteristics of SpunMasks. Overall, this eco-friendly, fast-dissolving, and preservative-free fibrous SpunMask shows potential of handheld electrospinning in biotechnology and cosmetic innovation to generate personalized and environmentally sustainable skin care products.